Measuring apparatus



Oct. 8, 1940.- J F. LUHRS 2,217,642

MEASURING APPARATUS Filed March 1. 1938 2 SheetsSheet 1 FIG. I 3n r aentor JOHN F. LUHRS FG. 2 4 u Oct 1940- J. F. LUHRS MEASURING APPARATUS Filed March 1, 1938 2 Sheets-Sheet 2 lnventor JOHN F. LUHRS 7 attorney Patented Oct. 8, 1940 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE MEASURING APPARATUS Delaware Application March 1, 1938, Serial No. 193,333

14 Claims.

This invention relates to the art of determining the relative or absolute magnitude of the density of a fluid in the vapor, liquid, or vapor-liquid phase.

More particularly my invention relates to apparatus for determining the density of a flowing fluid at a particular point in its flow path, and further to the determination of the mean density of a flowing fluid through a particular section of its fiOW path.

be used in the control of a variable directly or indirectly through regulation of an agent or agents producing, maintaining, or otherwise affecting the variable, or it may be used to give a visual indication thereof.

l1 have chosen to illustrate and describe as a preferred embodiment of my invention its adaptation to the measuring of the density of a flowing heated fluid stream, such as the flow of hydrocarbon oil through a cracking still.

While a partially satisfactory control of the cracking operation may be had from a knowledge of the temperature, pressure, and rate of flow of the fluid stream being treated, yet a knowledge of the density of the flowing stream at different points in its path is of a considerably greater value to the operator, but was not available prior to the discovery by Robert L. Rude, as claimed in his copending application Serial No. 700,485.

In the treatment of water below the critical pressure, as in a, vapor generator, a knowledge of temperature, pressure and rate of flow may be sufficient for proper control, inasmuch as definite tables have been established for interrelation between temperature and pressure, and from which tables the density of the liquid or vapor may be determined. However, there are no available tables for determining the density of a hydrocarbon in the liquid-vapor phase.

In the processing of a fluid, such as petroleum hydrocarbon, a change in density of the fluid may occur through at least three causes:

1. The generation or formation of vapor of the liquid, whether or not separation from the liquid occurs.

2. Liberation of dissolved or entrained gases.

3. Molecular rearrangement as by cracking or polymerization.

The result is that no temperature pressuredensity tables may be established for any liquid, vapor, or liquid-vapor condition of such a fluid, and it is only through actual measurement of the density of a mixture of the liquid and vapor Such determinations as my invention gives may that the operator may have any reliable knowl edge as to the physical condition of the fluid stream at various points in the treatment.

It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the continuous determination of the density of such a flowing stream is of tremendous 5 importance and value to an operator in controlling the heating, mean density, time of detention in a given portion of the circuit, etc. A continuous knowledge of the density of such a heated flowing stream is particularly advantageous Where wide changes in density occur due to formation, generation, and/or liberation of gases, with the resulting formation of liquid-vapor mixtures, velocity changes, and varying time of detention in different portions of the fluid path. In fact, for a fixed or given volume of path, a determination of the mean density in that portion provides the only possibility of accurately determining the time that the fluid in that portion of the path is subjected to heating or treatment. By my invention I provide the requisite system and apparatus wherein such information is made available continuously to an operator, and furthermore may comprise the guiding means for automatic control of the process or treatment.

While illustrating and describing my invention as preferably adapted to the cracking of petroleum hydrocarbon, it is to be understood that it may be equally applicable to the vaporization or treatment of other liquids and in other processes.

In the drawings:

Fig. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of density measuring apparatus for a heated stream, and of mean density measuring apparatus of the stream through a portion of its flow path.

Fig. 2 is a modification of a part of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a further embodiment of my invention.

Referring now in particular to Fig. 1, I indicate a conduit I which may be considered as comprising the once through fluid path of an oil still where a portion of the path, such as the coil 2, is heated by a burner 3. After passing through the coil 2 the fluid is passed through a section of the conduit I, designated by the numeral 4, and thence returned to a coil 5 for further heating by the burner 3. The heating coil 2 will be hereinafter referred to as a first heating section, while the coil 5 will be referred to as a second heating 50 section. In the preferred arrangement of the operation of the still the section 5 is the conversion or cracking section, and the one in which it is primarily desirable to continuously determine the mean density of the fluid. After leaving the sec- 0nd heating section the fluid is discharged from the still through a conduit 6, comprising in reality a section of the conduit I.

In accordance with my invention I determine the density of the fluid at the location 4 by causing the fiuid to pass through a variable area obstruction, such as an orifice I, varying the area of the orifice I to maintain a constant differential thereacross, and determining the ratio of the Weight rate of fluid flow through the flow path to a function of the area of the orifice. Likewise the density of the fiuid at the location 6 may be determined from the ratio of the weight rate of fiuid fiow to a function of the area of a variable area orifice 8. The mean density through the second heating section 5 may be determined by averaging the density of the fluid at the locations 4 and 6. That the density of a flowing fluid may be so obtained will be apparent from a consider ation of the following mathematical development.

Let-

Wr=the weight rate of fluid flow D1=density of the fiuid at orifice I Do=density of the fiuid at orifice 8 Dm=means density across the second heating section 5 h1=K1=differential maintained across orifice I ho=Ko=differential maintained across orifice 8 A1=area of orifice I Ao=area of orifice 8 The basic formula for an orifice is:

W =KcFA /fi 1 Where- W=weight rate of fiow K=a constant C=experimen-tal coefficient F=approach factor A=area of the orifice H=differential pressure across orifice D=density of the fluid at the orifice Therefore at orifice I WF (KCFA) K D 2 but C and F for any one orifice are substantially constant and if variable are functions of A Therefore:

M (4) and:

1E. W/i0) and:

DI+D new y) T" 2( f(A1) f( o) (6) The orifices I and 8 are shown as fiat plates movable transversely in the sections 4 and 6 respectively to vary the free area of the orifice. While I have found such orifices as illustrated and known in the art as .segmentai orifices to be satisfactory, it will be apparent that any other type of partial obstruction may be employed. The orifice I is positioned transversely in the section 4 to maintain a constant differential by means of a reversible motor 9 under the control of a device such as a U-tube generally indicated at I0 and sensitive to the differential across the orifice I.

In one leg of the U-tube III is a float II positioned in accordance with the differential across theorifice I. When the differential across the orifice I departs from a predetermined constant value the float I I closes an electric circuit causing the motor 9 to rotate in one direction or the other and thus vary the area of the orifice I until the differential thereacross is restored to the predetermined value.

The differential across the orifice 8 is maintained at a predetermined constant value by means of a similar device generally indicated at I2. The differential pressures maintained across the orifices I3, I and 8 may be the same, or they may be different. So long as they are maintained at predetermined constant values, differences in their absolute values may be properly compensated for in the design of the apparatus, as will be evident to those skilled in the art.

To obtain a measure of the weight rate of fluid flow through the conduit I I may employ any known device for metering fluid flows. In the embodiment of my invention disclosed in Fig. l I have disclosed a meter of the rate of fiow similar to the devices I have described for maintaining a constant differential across the orifices I and 8. From the Formula 1 given above it is apparent that if the head H across an orifice and the density D remains constant, then the weight rate of flow will vary as a function of the orifice area (A). The fluid before passing through the first heating section 2 is substantially constant in density and accordingly the orifice area across which a constant differential pressure is maintained will be a measure of the rate of fiuid flow. Such changes in density as may be encountered and which are usually given in terms of specific gravity may be properly compensated for in a manner hereinafter to be described.

In the conduit I ahead of the first heating section 2 I show a variable area orifice I3 across which a constant differential pressure is maintained by means of a U-tube generally indicated at I 4 controlling a motor I5. Assuming, for example, that there is a decrease in the rate of flow through the conduit I, then the differential across the orifice I3 will tend to decrease, thereby effecting energization of the motor I5 in proper direction to decrease the free area of the orifice. Upon an increase in the rate of flow to the conduit I the opposite action will occur, the motor Ii rotating in direction to increase the free area of the orifice to restore the differential thereacross to the desired value.

Further consideration of the Formula 1 above will indicate that if the density D and the area A are constant, then the flow through an orifice will vary as the square root of the differential pressure H. Accordingly, I may in place of utilizing a variable orifice, such as I have illustrated in Fig. 1, use the alternate arrangement shown in Fig. 2 where the device II is sensitive to the differential produced by a constant area orifice I8 which may be positioned in the conduit I in lieu of the variable area orifice I 3. A float I1 in one leg of the device I4 will accordingly be positioned proportional to the differential pressure across the orifice I6, and the motion thereof may be utilized to produce an effect varying in accordance with the weight rate of flow through the condiut I as hereinafter described.

My invention contemplates producing a first measurable effect varying in proper functional relation to the weight rate of fluid flow, a second measurable effect varying in proper functional relation to the area of the orifice 1 and a third measurable effect varying in proper functional relation to the area of the orifice 8. From the ratio between the first and second effects I am able to determine the density of the fluid at the orifice 1; from the ratio between the first and third effects the density of the fluid at the orifice 8 may be determined. By further producing an effect varying as each of said ratios and determining the sum of the last named effects, I may obtain a measure of the mean density through the second heating section 5. In the embodiment of my invention shown in Fig. l, I utilize fluid pressures as the measurable effect, and through the agency of proper instrumentalities hereinafter to be described determine the ratio and the sum of such ratios to determine the density at the orifices 1 and 8 and the mean density of the fluid within the second heating section 5.

Referring to Fig. 1 I show the stem of the orifice l3 provided with a shaped cam section |8 against which rides a pivoted cam follower I9, to which is connected the movable valve stem 20 of a pilot valve 2|. The pilot valve 2| may be of the type shown and described in United States Patent 2,054,464 to Clarence Johnson. Pressure fluid from a suitable source is admitted through a centrally located inlet port 22 and is so controlled that for every position of the valve stem 20 there will be a definite pressure established in the outlet port 23. Accordingly, as the follower I9 is angularly positioned, due to changes in position of the orifice l3, there will be a definite predetermined change in the fluid pressure at the outlet port 23. Briefly, therefore, for each position of the orifice l3 there will be a definite pressure established by the pilot valve 2|.

The cam section I8 may be properly shaped to correspond to the functional relation existing between the position of the orifice l3 and the fluid pressure which it is desired to establish by the pilot valve 2|. Thus referring to Formula 4 above, for example, it is apparent that the fluid pressure established by the valve 2| should vary as the square of the weight rate of fluid flow. Inasmuch as from Formula 1 it is apparent that the fiow varies directly with the orifice area the cam section l8 should be so shaped as to cause the fluid pressure established by the pilot 2| to vary as the square of the orifice area. The shape of the cam section l8 may be further warped to properly compensate for changes in experimental coefiicient, approach factor, and other factors varying in relation to orifice area.

To establish a fluid pressure varying in proper functional relation to the area of the orifice 1, I provide an arrangement similar tothat described with reference to the orifice l3." The orifice 1 is provided with a suitably shaped cam section 24, which through the agency of a follower 25 positions a movable valve stem 25 of a pilot valve 21. The fluid pressure established at the outlet port 28 of the pilot valve 21 will accordingly be in proper functional relation to the position of the orifice 1. Likewise I show the orifice 8 provided with a suitably shaped cam section 29, which through a follower 39 and pilot valve 3| establishes a fluid pressure at an outlet port 32 varying in proper functional relation to the position of the orifice 8.

The fluid pressure established by the pilot 2| is transmitted through a pipe 31 and branch 38 to a fluid pressure weighing device 39. The fluid pressure established by the pilot 21 is transmitted through a pipe 40 to a device 4| similar to the device 39. The devices 39 and 4| bear against a fulcrumed lever 42 and impress thereon opposed forces proportional to the magnitude of the fluid pressures established by the pilots 2| and 21 respectively.

The torque produced by the device 39 and tendin to position the lever 42 in a counterclockwise direction will be proportional to the product of the fluid pressure established by the pilot 2| and the distance the device 39 is from the fulcrum of the lever 42. Likewise the torque produced by the device 4| will be proportional to the pressure established by the pilot 21 multiplied by the distance the device 4| is from the fulcrum of the lever 42. Inasmuch as the forces produced by the devices 39 and 4| are opposed, the following mathematical relation will exist when the lever 42 is in equilibrium or neutral position:

3c =F41X where- F39=Force produced by device 39' F41=Force produced by device 4| a=Moment arm of device 39 b Moment arm of device 4| and:

but by construction:

F39: Wr F41 =f (AI) ct=K=a constant therefore b WF 70 1) (9) WF foil) From Equation 10 it is apparent that if the moment arm of the device 39 is maintained constant and the moment arm of the device 4| varied to maintain the lever 42 in equilibrium, then the moment arm of the device 4| becomes a measure of the density of the fluid at the variable area orifice 1.

To maintain the lever 42 in equilibrium or in neutral position I employ a pilot valve 43 having a movable stem 44 pivotally connected to the lever 42. The pressure established by the pilot 43 is effective for positioning the device 4| through a fluid pressure servo-motor diagrammatically illustrated at 46. In operation, assuming that the lever 42 is displaced in a counterclockwise direction from the neutral position, the loading pressure established by the pilot 43 will immediately decrease, causing the servomotor 46 to position the device 4| in a direction increasing the moment arm b until the increase in torque caused thereby is sufficient to restore the lever to the neutralposition. Conversely, a displacement of the lever 42 in a clockwise direction will effect an increase in the loading pressure established by the pilot 43 to decrease the moment arm b until the lever is again restored to the neutral position.

As shown, I may suitably graduate the lever 42 so that the magnitude of the moment arm I) may be determined directly or, if preferred, I may graduate the lever 42 to read directly in 2,217,842 terms of density of the fluid at the orifice I. As when moved from the neutral position in which the fluid pressure established by the pilot 43 and necessary to maintain the lever 42 in neutral position varies with the length of the moment arm b, it is apparent that the magnitude of this fluid pressure may be used as an indication of the density of the fluid. In Fi I have shown such an arra sent where a pressure sensitive Boui on tube cris arranged to nsition an inde: relative to a scale which may be graduated to read directly in terms of density.

If in lieu of the variable area orifice 13 the arrangement for obtaining a measure of the weight rate of flow shown in Fig. 2 is used, then the float i? may be arran ed to operate a suitably shaped cam li IA so that the fluid pressure established by the pilot will hear the desired functional relation to the rate of fluid flow through the conduit To obtain a measure of the density of the fluid at the orifice 8 I utilize an arrangement similar to that described for determining the density of the fluid at the orifice I. As shown in Fig. 1, the loading pressure established by the pilot 2i is transmitted through a branch conduit 50 to a fluid pressure weighing device 51, and that established by the pilot 3! is transmitted through a pipe 52 to a fiuid pressure weighing device 53. The devices 55 and 53 bear against a. fulcrumed lever 54 in opposed relation and the moment arm of the device 53 is varied through the agency of a pilot valve 55 and fluid pressure operated servo-motor 56 to maintain the fulcrumed lever 55 in neutral position.

As demonstrated mathematically with refer ence to the determination of the density at the orifice I it may be shown that:

W WAOF (11) Accordingly by suitably graduating the lever 54 I may obtain a direct visual indication of the density at the orifice 8 or I may employ the loading pressure established by the pilot 55 to actuate a proximate or remotely located Bourdon tube 51 and index 58 to give an indication of the density relative to a scale 59.

From Equation 6 above it is apparent that the mean density of the fluid in the second heating section is proportional to the sum of the loading pressures established by the pilot valves 43 and 55. In determining the mean density in the embodiment of my invention shown in Fig. 1 I establish a fluid pressure proportional to the sum of the said two loading pressures and utilize the latter pressure to actuate a suitable exhibiting means. I obtain this latter fluid pressure which is proportional to the sum of the two loading pressures through the agency of a device generally indicated at 60 and illustrated and described in United States Patent 2,098,913 to P. S. Dickey.

The loading pressure established by the pilot 43 is transmitted to a chamber 6|, whereas that established by the pilot 55 is transmitted to a chamber 62. Each of the chambers 6| and 62 has one wall, consisting of a pressure sensitive diaphragm which diaphragms are connected together for simultaneous movement by a member 53. The force tending to move the member 63 downward will therefore be proportional to the sum of the pressures within the chambers SI and 62. The member 63 is arranged to actuate, by means of a fulcrumed lever 64, a. fluid pressure supply valve 65 or an exhaust valve 56 it is shown. The valves 65 and 66 control the admission and discharge of pressure fluid from a chamber 61, which is separated from the chamber 62 by the pressure sensitive diaphragm. Accordingly the member 63 is urged upwardly by a force proportional to the magnitude of the pressure within the chamber 61.

When the fluid pressure within the chamber 57 is equal to the sum of the pressures within the chambers Bi and 62 the supply and exhaust valves 65 and 66 will be closed, whereas if the pressure 67 is less than that within chambers 61 and 62 the supply valve 65 will be opened until the pressure within chamber 61 has increased to again be equal to the sum of the pressures within chambers SI and 62. Conversely, if the pressure within chamber 61 exceeds the sum of the pressures within chambers BI and 62, then the exhaust valve 66 will be opened until the pressure within chamber 61 has been reduced sufliciently to restore equilibrium.

Due to the action of the device 60 the pressure within the chamber 6'! will continuously stand in direct proportion to the sum of the densities of the fluids at the orifices l and 8, and accordingly its magnitude may be taken as a measure of the mean density of the fluid within the second heating section 5. To obtain a visual indication of the magnitude of the pressure within chamber 67, I show connected thereto a pres sure sensitive Bourdon tube 68 arranged to position an index 69, which may be provided with a stylus to record the mean density on a suitably graduated time rotatable chart HI and to indicate the same relative to a graduated scale H.

It will be understood that the indicating and recording arrangement I have shown is intended to be merely diagrammatic and that I may employ other devices for obtaining a visual indication of the pressure with the chamber 81 as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

As previously indicated the area of the orifice I 3 is a measure of the weight rate of flow of fluid through the conduit only so long as the density of the fluid remains constant. Inasmuch as the fluid in the conduit I before the first heating section is in stable form, such changes in density as occur are usually of minor magnitude and do not appreciably affect the accuracy of measurement. However, if such changes in density, which are usually reduced to changes in specific gravity, are of sufiicient magnitude to materially afiect the accuracy of the measurements of the rate of flow I may provide the apparatus disclosed in Fig. l with suitable means for correcting for such changes in density. As an example, I have shown the device 38 manually adjustable along the lever 42 so that the moment arm (a) may be varied in suitable functional relation to changes in density to properly correct therefor. I have shown a manually adjustable screw 12, which may be used to position the device 39 so that an index carried thereby corresponds to the density or specific gravity reading given on a suitably graduated scale 13. The density of the fluid within the conduit I ahead of orifice l3 may be periodically determined by a hydrometer or other well-known means and then the device 39 adjusted so that the force produced thereby on the beam 42 is suitably compensated for changes in the density or departure of the actual density compared to determine the density of the fluid at the locations 4, 6, and the mean density of the fluid within the second heating section 5. In comparing the time durations of the impulses I employ the principle of logarithms that I may obtain a ratio through determining the difference in time lengths of the impulses. For example, in determining Dr in accordance with Formula 4 above I obtain periodic impulses proportional in time length to the logarithm of WF2 and periodic impulses of a time length proportional to f(Ar). Each periodic impulse proportional to WF2 is compared to the corresponding impulse proportional to J(Ar) and a member positioned in accordance with the difference in time lengths of the said set of impulses. I then obtain an impulse proportional to the antilogarithm of the displacement of the said member from an initial position, which impulse is accordingly proportional in time length to Dr. The density at the orifice 8 or Do may be obtained in similar manner, and the mean density of the fluid within the second heating section 5 may be obtained by suitably adding corresponding impulses proportional in time length to Dr and Do.

I will now describe the means I employ for obtaining periodic simultaneous impulses of a time duration proportional to the logarithm of a function of the area of orifices l3, 8 and 1. Bearing against the cam shape |8 of the oriflce l3, for example, is a follower |9A operating a contact 16 connected to a suitable source of current Tl. Arranged to periodically engage the contact 16 is a cam 18 intermittently operated by a motor diagrammatically illustrated at 19. The intermittent operation of the motor I9 is obtained by means of a contact drum 8|) continuously rotated at constant speed by means of a motor 8|. The drum 80 carries a conducting segment 82. During a portion of each revolution of the drum 80 the conducting segment 82 will permit the motor 19 to be energized from the source IT as an inspection of Fig. 3 will make evident. The length of the segment 82 is sufficient to cause one complete revolution of the cam 18. Accordingly, the normal position of the cam 18 is that shown in the drawings, and upon energization of the motor 19 the cam 18 will be rotated through one complete revolution. Through the use of self-starting synchronous motors the cam 18 may be made to rotate at a uniform rate of speed as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

During each revolution of the cam 18 the contact 16 will be engaged for an increment of time determined by the shape of the cam section l8 and the cam 18. Through suitably shaping these surfaces the duration of the engagement between contact 16 and cam 18 may be made proportional to the logarithm of (We Thus the cam section |8 may be such that the position of the contact 16 will be directly proportional to the said logarithm so that the cam and the entire logarithmic through shaping of the cam 18. Regardless of 'ergized by engagement 18 will have a uniform rise, or the logarithmic function may be partially obtained through shaping of the section l8 and the remainder through proper shaping of the cam 18. Again the cam section l8 might be given a uniform rise function obtained the exact arrangement which may be employed the desideratum is to have the contact 18 engage the cam 18 periodically for an increment of time proportional to the logarithm of (W1 Simultaneous with the energization of motor 19 similar motors 83 and 84 are operated to rotate cams 85 and 88 through one revolution. As described with reference to the orifice I3, cam sections 24, 29, and cams 85, 86 may be suitably shaped so that in the case of the cam 85 an electric impulse of a time duration proportional to the logarithm of ,f(A1) will be obtained through engagement of the cam 85 with a contact 81 and similarly an electric impulse of duration proportional to the logarithm of f(Ao) will be obtained through engagement of the cam 86 with a contact 88.

To obtain now a determination of the ratio of the weight rate of flow of fluid to ,f(A1), I effect movement of a member proportional to the difference in time length of the impulses originated by the cams l8 and 85. Engagement of the cam 18 with the contact 16 serves to energize a winding 98 of a self-starting synchronous motor 9| having an opposed winding 92. The winding 92 is enof the cam 85 with the contact 81. When windings 90 and 92 are both energized the motor 9| is not urged to rotation, nor is it urged to rotation when both windings. 90 and 92 are deenergized. However, when either winding 90 or 92 alone is energized, then the motor 92 will be urged to rotation in a direction depending upon the particular winding energized. Thus energization of the winding 90 may effect rotation in a counterclockwise direction, whereas energization of the winding 92 may effect r0- tation in a clockwise direction. As the difference in energization of the windings 90 and 92 is proportional to the difference in logarithms it is apparent that the motor 9| will rotate for an increment of time proportional to that difference. Accordingly, a member positioned by the motor 9| will be periodically moved from the initial position, in which it is shown, for an increment of time and likewise for a distance proportional to the said difference. If the time duration of the electric impulses originating through the agency of the cams I8 and 85 are equal, then the member 93 will remain in the initial position. If the impulse established by the cam 18 is of longer duration than that established by the cam 85 then the member 93 will be moved in one sense from the initial position and if the impulse established by the cam 85 is the longer then the member 93 will be moved in opposite sense from the initial position.

When the member 93 remains in the initial position throughout a complete cycle of operation of the cams 18 and 85 it indicates that a ratio of 1 exists between WFZ and (A1) or that the logarithm of the ratio is zero. Displacement of the member 93 to the left of the initial position as viewed in the drawing indicates a ratio less than 1, or a negative logarithm. Movement of the member 93 to the right of the initial position indicates a ratio greater than 1 or a positive logarithm.

The member 93 is driven by the motor 9| logarithm of through a friction clutch so that subsequent to each advancement from the initial position it may be returned thereto to obtain an impulse varying in direct proportion to the ratio of We to f(A1). Disposed on either side of the member 93 and in operative relation thereto are properly shaped cams 94 and 95 periodically rotated through one revolution subsequent to each advancement of the member 93 by a motor 96. Proper sequential operation of the cams 94 and 95 relative to the operation of member 93 is obtained through drum 80 and a conducting segment 9'! thereon.

Subsequent to each cycle of operation of the motors I9 and 83 the motor 96 is energized by means of segment 91, which is of such length that cams 94 and 95 are rotated through one complete revolution and then remain stationary until a further cycle of operation of motors I9 and 83 occurs. When member 93 is displaced to the left, the cam 94 will act to restore it to the initial position, and when displaced to the right, cam 95 will act to restore it to the initial position. The operation of the parts of the apparatus so far described is such that periodically the member 93 will be displaced from the initial position an amount proportional to the logarithm of the ratio of the weight rate of fluid flow to f(AI) and subsequent to such displacement the member 93 will be restored to the initial position through the agency of cams 94 and 95, which cams are properly shaped so that the time engagement with the member 93 will be proportional to the antithe said logarithm.

The cam 95 is provided with a short dwell section at its point of maximum rise, so that if the member 93 remains in the initial position because of a ratio of one existing between WI- and ,flAr) it will engage the member for a corresponding increment of time, in this case the cam 94 by virtue of its shape will only momentarily engage the member. Improper engagement between the cam and member 93 is prevented when the member is displaced to the left by having the cam follow the cam 95 so that after such displacement to the left it will not be restored to the initial position untfl after the dwell of cam 95 has passed.

The member 9 carries a contact 98 which engages the cams 99 and 95 and serves to originate an electric impulse proportional to the said antilogarithm. This electric impulse serves to periodically energize a winding 99 of a self-starting synchronous motor I and to cause displacement of a contact member I0l, driven thereby through a friction clutch, from an initial position an amount proportional to the magnitude of the antilogarithm.

Following each advancement of the contact member I E proportional to the antilogarithm of the logarithm of the ratio of We to f(A1) I produce a further advancement thereof proportional to the antilogarithm of the logarithm of the ratio of WFZ to f(Ao) and thereby move the contact member l0I during each cycle of operation an amount proportional to the sum of said ratios, or as evident, proportional to the mean density of the fluid within the second heating section 5. I obtain this subsequent advancement of the contact member I0l through apparatus similar to that described for obtaining the initial advancement. Thus engagement of contact IS with cam 18 serves to energize a winding I02 of a motor I03 having an opposed winding I04. Engagement of the contact 88 with the cam 86 serves to energize the latter winding. The difference in time duration of the energizetion of windings I02 and I04 serves to position a movable member I05 from the initial position shown. The displacement of the member I05 occurs simultaneously with the displacement of the member 93. However, during that part of the cycle of complete operation when member 93 is being returned to the neutral position, and hence establishing an impulse effective for positioning the contact member IN, the member I05 remains stationary. When, however, the member 93 has been restored to the initial position the member I05 will be restored to its initial position through the agency of cams I06,'I01 which are rotated by a motor I08 periodically energized through a conducting segment I09 of the drum 80. It will be evident that the member I05 will be restored to the initial position subsequent to such restoration of the member 93, due to the fact that the segment I09 follows the segment 91.

The cams i06 and I0! act in the same way as the cams 95 and 94 respectively and periodically establish an electric impulse proportional to the antilogarithm of the logarithm of the ratio of the weight rate of fluid flow to f(Ao). The electric impulses established through engagement of the contact member I05 with either the cams I06 or I01 act to cause a further displacement of the member IOI. Thus for each cycle of operation of the cams 94, 95 and I06, I01 the member I0! will be advanced an amount proportional to the sum and hence the mean of the ratios determined by the apparatus described, or expressed mathematically:

where A1O1=Periodic displacement of member I0! To provide a visual indication-or record of the displacement of the member IOI, I provide means for restoring it to the initial position subsequent to each advancement, and in so restoring it originating an electric impulse oi: a time duration proportional to its displacement and thence utilizing such impulse to control the positioning of a suitable member, such as that index H0.

After operation of the motor 100 further rotation of the drum 80 causes segment III to energize a motor H 2 for a length of time sufiicient to cause a complete revolution of a cam H3 from the normal position shown. In the rotation of cam H3, a cam follower II4 will engage the contact member I 0| and return it to the initial position. If the cam [I3 is of uniform rise then the time duration of such engagement between the members I0! and H4 will be proportional to the displacement of the member IOI from the initial position. Engagement of members IOI, II4 energize a winding H5 of a reversible motor IIB.

Simultaneously with the energization of motor H2 9. motor II! is energized for a suflicient length of time to cause a cam IIB rotated thereby to pass through one complete revolution. During a part of each revolution of the cam H8 a contact member H9 is engaged for a time duration proportional to its position. Such engagement of the cam II8 with the contact member H9 energizes a winding I20 of the motor II6. As the cams H3 and H8 rotate in phase the motor II6 will rotate in one direction or another for an increment of time proportional in duration to the difference in time length of energization of the winding I I5 as compared with the winding I20. Thus if the time duration of energization of winding H5 is greater than that of the winding I20, then the motor IIB will rotate in a counterclockwise direction an amount proportional to the difference in time length of energization. Conversely, if the winding I20 is energized for the longer increment of time then the motor IIG will rotate in a clockwise direction.

The motor Il6 positions, through a suitable linkage arrangement. a fulcrumed lever I2I about a fixed fulcrum I22. The lever I2I positions the index IIO relative to a time rotatable chart I23 which may be driven by any suitable clock mechanism (not shown) so that a record of the mean density relative to time will be inscribed thereon. Also cooperating with the index H0 is a suitably graduated scale I24 whereby the instantaneous mean density is continuously indicated.

The contact member I I9 normally rests against the lever I 2| and is pivoted at the fulcrum I22. Its normal position therefore corresponds to the position of the index H0 and the time duration of the electric impulses formed by engagement of the cam I I8 with the contact member II9 will be proportional to the position of the index IIO. Those contacts formed by engagement of the contact member II4 with the arm IOI are proportional in time duration to the mean density of the fluid in the second heating section 5. Accordingly it may be said that the motor I I6 compares the time duration of the impulses formed through engagement of cam I I8 with contact member H9, and those formed by engagement of contact member ill with arm IN; and then varies the time duration of the former to bring them to the same duration as the latter, when the posi tion of index I I0 will be in proportion to the mean density.

While the apparatus disclosed in Fig. 3 is arranged to determine the mean density of the fluid in the second heating section 5. it may readily be utilized to determine only the density of the fluid at the orifice 8 or at the orifice I. Thus in the conductor leading to the motor I00 from the cams I06--I0'I I show a manually operable switch I25.-

By opening this switch to the position shown in dotted line the motor I00 will only be periodically energized through engagement of the cam 94 or cam 95 with the contact 90. Accordingly, the index II 0 will be positioned to correspond with the time duration of the mpulses formed by such engagement, or to correspond with the densits of the fluid at the orifice 1. Similarly I show in the conductor from cams 04, 95 to the motor I00 a manually operable switch I 26 which, if moved to the open position as shown in dotted line, will cause the motor I00 to be energized solely through engagement of cam I06 or cam I01 with contact arm I05, and accordingly the indicator will then be positioned solely in accordance with the density at the orifice 8.

While I have illustrated my invention adapted to determine density at a point remote from a reference point or the mean density between two points remote from a reference point, it will be evident that it may be adapted to other uses and that while in the embodiments shown means are provided for correcting the meter of the weight rate of flow for changes in density, the apparatus will, notwithstanding that density determinations of the fluid are impossible, indicate the change in density between the metering or reference point and the point or points remote therefrom.

Further, while I have chosen to illustrate and describe the functioning of my invention in connection with the heating of petroleum or hydrocarbon oil, it is to be understood that the apparatus is equally applicable to the treatment, proc-- essing, or working of other fluids, such for example, as in the vaporization of water to form steam.

What I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent of the United States is:

1. Apparatus for determining the change in density of a fluid flowing through a conduit between a reference point and a point remote from the reference point, comprising in combination, a first variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at said reference point, a second variable area orifice through which said fluid fio-ws located at said remote point, means for varying the area of each of said orifices to maintain a predetermined differential across each of the orifices, and means for determining the ratio between the areas of said orifices as an indication of the change in density of the fluid between the reference point and the point remote from said reference point. 2. In an apparatus for determining the change in density of a flowing fluid over a section of its fiow path, in combination, a first variable area differential pressure producing device located in the fiow path at the entrance to said section, a second variable area differential pressure producing device located in the fiow path at the terinination of said section, means for varying the area of each of said orifices to cause each to maintain a predetermined differential pressure, and means for determining the ratio between the magnitude of a function of the area of the device at the entrance to the section to the magnitude of a function of the area of the device at the exit from the section.

3. Apparatus for determining the change in density of a fiuid flowing through a conduit be-- tween a reference point and a point remote-from the reference point, comprising in combination, a first variable area orifice through which said fluid fiows located at said reference point, a second variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at said remote point, means for varying the area of each of said orifices to maintain a constant differential across each of said orifices, means for producing a first effect varying in magnitude in functional relation to the area of the first orifice, means for producing a second effect varying in magnitude in functional relation to the area of the second orifice, and means for determining the ratio between the magnitudes of said effects as a measure of the change in density of the fluid.

4. Apparatus for determining the change in density of a fluid flowing through a conduit between a reference point in said conduit and a mean point between two points in said conduit remote from said reference point, comprising in combination, a variable area orifice through which said fiuid flows located at said reference point and each of said remote points, means for varying the areas of said orifices to'maintain a constant differential pressure across all of said orifices, means for producing a first effect varying in magnitude in functional relation to the 75 area of the orifice at said reference point, means for producing a second effect varying in magnitude in functional relation to the area of the orifice at one of said remote points, means for producing a third effect varying in functional relation to the area of the orifice at the other of said remote points, means for producing a fourth effect proportional in magnitude to the ratio between said first and second effects, means for producing a fifth effect proportional in magnitude to the ratio between said first and third effects, means for producing a sixth effect proportional in magnitude to the algebraic sum of the fourth and fifth effects, and exhibiting means of the magnitude of said sixth effect.

5. Apparatus for determining the density of a fluid flowing through a conduit at a point in said conduit, comprising in combination, means for producing a first effect varying in magnitude in functional relation to the weight rate of flow through said conduit, a variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at said point, means for varying the area of said orifice to maintain a predetermined differential thereacross, means for producing a second effect varying in magnitude in functional relation to the area of said orifice, and a reference member positioned in accordance with the ratio of the magnitude of said first and second effects.

6. Apparatus for determining the mean density of a fluid flowing through a conduit between two points in said conduit, comprising in combination, means for producing a first effect varying in magnitude in functional relation to the weight rate of flow through said conduit, 21. first variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at one of said points, a second variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at the other of said points, means associated with each of said orifices for varying the area thereof to maintain a predetermined differential thereacross, means for producing a sec ond effect varying in magnitude in accordance with the area of the first orifice, means for producing a third effect varying in magnitude in accordance with the area of the second orifice, means for determining the ratio between the magnitudes of the first and second effects, means for determining the ratio between the magnitudes of the first and third effects, and means for determining the sum of said ratios.

'7. Apparatus for determining the change in density of a fluid flowing through a conduit between a reference point and a point remote from the reference point, comprising in combination, a first variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at said reference point, a second variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at said remote point, means for varying the area of each of said orifices to maintain a predetermined differential pressure across each of the orifices, means for establishing a. first fluid pressure bearing a functional relation to the area of the first orifice, means for establishing a second fluid pressure bearing a functional relation to the area of the second orifice, and means for determining the ratio between the first and second fluid pressures.

8. Apparatus for determining the change in density of a fluid flowing through a conduit between a reference point and a point remote from the reference point, comprising in combination, means for producing a first fluid pressure varying in magnitude in functional relation to the weight rate of flow through said conduit at said reference point, a variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at said remote point, means for varying the area of said orifice to maintain a predetermined differential pressure thereacross, means for producing a second fluid pressure varying in magnitude in functional relation to the area of said orifice, and 2. reference member positioned in accordance with the ratio of the magnitudes of said first and second fluid pressures.

9. Apparatus for determining the mean density of a fluid flowing through a conduit between two points in said conduit, comprising in combination, means for producing a first fluid pressure varying in magnitude in functional relation to the weight rate of fluid flow through said conduit, a first variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at one of said points, a second variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at the other of said points, means associated with each of said orifices for varying the area thereof to maintain a predetermined differential pressure thereacross, means for producing a second fluid pressure varying in magnitude in accordance with the area of the first orifice, means for producing a third fluid pressure varying in magnitude in accordance with the area of the second orifice, means for establishing a fourth fluid pressure proportional to the ratio between the magnitudes of the first and second fluid pressures, means for establishing a fifth fluid pressure proportional to the ratio between the magnitudes of the first and third fluid pressures, and means for establishing a sixth fluid pressure proportional to the sum of the fourth and fifth fluid pressures.

10. Apparatus for determining the density of a fluid flowing through a conduit at a point in said conduit, comprising in combination, a fulcrumed lever having a neutral position, means for applying to said lever a first force proportional to the weight rate of flow through said conduit, a variable area. orifice through which said fluid flows, means for varying the area of said orifice to maintain a predetermined differential pressure thereacross, means for applying to said lever in opposition to said first force a second force proportional to the area of said orifice, and means actuated by displacement of said lever from the neutral position due to unbalance of said forces for varying the point of application of one of said forces relative to said fulcrum to restore said lever to the neutral position.

11. Apparatus for determining the density of a fluid flowing through a conduit at a point in said conduit, comprising in combination, means for cyclically telemeten'ng a first signal having a characteristic corresponding to the logarithm of the weight rate of fluid flow through said conduit, a variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at said point, means for varying the area of said orifice to maintain a predetermined differential pressure thereacross, means for cyclically telemetering a second signal having a characteristic corresponding to the logarithm of the area of said orifice, and means for determining the difference in characteristic of said signals.

12. Apparatus for determining the density of a fluid flowing through a conduit at a. point in said conduit, comprising in combination, means for-cyclically telemetering a first signal having a time duration corresponding to the logarithm of the weight rate of fluid flow through said conduit, a variable area orifice through which said fluid flows located at said point, means tor varying the area of said orifice to maintain a predetermined differential pressure thereacross, means for cyclically and simultaneously with said first signal telemetering asecond signal having a time duration corresponding to the logarithm of the area of said orifice, and receiver means responsive to said signals and comprising means positioned in accordance with the antilogarithm of the difference in time duration of said first and second signals.

13. vApparatus for determining the change in density of a fluid flowing through a conduit between a reference point and a point remote from the reference point, comprising in combination, means for partially restricting the flow path at said reference point and at said point remote value.

from the reference point, means for determining the differential pressure produced by each of the restrictions, and means varying the area of each of the restrictions to maintain the differential pressures produced thereby at predetermined values.

14. Apparatus for determining the density of a flowing fluid at a point in its flow path, comprising in combination, means for determining the weight rate of flow of the fluid, meansfor partially restricting'the flow path at said point, means for determining the difierential pressure produced by said restriction, and means varying the area of said restriction to maintain the differential produced thereby at a predetermined JOHN F. LUHRS. 

